Nigeria will host the 2023 Africa Internet Governance Forum together with 54 other nations

At the Africa Internet Governance Forum (AfIGF 2023) in Abuja from September 18 to 21, 2023, 54 African countries and other continental stakeholder blocs will be hosted by Nigeria.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is hosting this year’s event, the 12th edition of the yearly forum, on behalf of the Federal Government. It will be held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja with the theme “Transforming Africa’s Digital Landscape: Empowering Inclusion, Security, and Innovation.”

With the goal of advancing digital connectivity, addressing Internet Governance issues, and empowering Africa via digital transformation, the Forum will provide a forum for substantive discussion and collaboration on Internet Governance among various sectors and regional efforts.

The African Youth Internet Governance Forum, which will take place from September 13–18, 2023, will be held prior to the main event.

The program’s series of activities will start with the Parliamentarian Symposium, which is scheduled for September 18–19, 2023. During this event, parliamentarians from all participating nations will have the chance to network and consult with one another in a roundtable discussion meant to improve understanding of the functions of the legislature and encourage deeper synergy with parliaments on Internet Governance in Africa.

The AfIGF 2023 promises to be a significant gathering of key stakeholders from government, civil society, academia, the information and communications technology (ICT) sector, and a wide range of actors in the private sector, intentionally gathered to discuss significant issues centred on the growth, accessibility, and governance of the Internet in Africa.

The Forum is a dynamic and inclusive platform that brings together stakeholders from all over the African continent and other international partners to engage in discussions that will shape the future of Internet Governance. The Forum is structured into a variety of gatherings, including dialogues, workshops, panel sessions, symposia, and roundtables.

Plenary sessions, interactive workshops, and expert panels with a focus on topics like Digital Inclusion and Connectivity, Cyber Security and Data Protection, Digital Rights and Freedom of Expression, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Emerging Technologies, E-Commerce and Digital Economy, and Data Governance and Trust are among the other key sessions that will be highlighted at the conference.

Participants are also scheduled to talk on how digital literacy and internet access may help the continent’s development in light of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

High-profile speakers, decision-makers, business professionals, and thought leaders from Africa and beyond will be present at the event.

The forum will produce actionable recommendations through the expertise and insights of participants, reshaping the trajectory of the continent’s digital landscape, and paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous digital future. These recommendations can inform policymaking, motivate investments, and shape the future of Internet Governance in Africa.